Former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing it as a deeply personal loss.
Buhari died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in London, where he was receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness. Following the announcement, Vice President Kashim Shettima led a government delegation to the UK to oversee the repatriation of his remains to Nigeria.
“I Lost a Leader, a Pillar, and a Father Figure” – Lai Mohammed
In a heartfelt statement personally signed by him, Lai Mohammed, who served as the Minister of Information and Culture throughout Buhari’s two-term administration (2015–2023), said:
“With his passing, I have lost not just a leader and a boss, but a mentor, pillar of support, and father figure.”
Mohammed praised Buhari’s integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment to Nigeria, adding that beyond being a patriot, the late president was also a true humanist.
“Many have rightly described him as a rare patriot, a man of unwavering faith and character, an incorruptible leader, and the very epitome of honesty. But beyond those noble attributes, President Buhari was a true humanist… he prioritized empathy, compassion, and the well-being of others.”
Recalling Their Personal Bond
The former minister reminisced on the close bond he shared with Buhari, recounting how the president regularly checked on his well-being, despite carrying the weight of the nation.
“Throughout the nearly eight years that I served as the spokesman for his government, he always asked after my well-being… On one occasion, he publicly remarked, ‘I pity Lai Mohammed.’”
He also revealed that their relationship continued beyond their time in office.
“Our bond transcended our time in office. I kept in touch with him even after he left Abuja. During my last visit to Daura, I spent three nights with him. Our final meeting was in Kaduna during the last Ramadan… Little did I know it would be our last meeting on this side of the great divide.”
Final Prayers and Tribute
Lai Mohammed concluded by praying for Buhari’s soul and offering condolences to the former president’s family and the nation.
“It was truly a privilege for me to have known and worked with him. I pray that Almighty God forgives all his shortcomings and grants him Aljannah Firdaus. May He also comfort his family and all Nigerians who mourn the loss of this remarkable man.”
